Actiq is a highly controlled substance for dealing with pain. This opioid pain medicine contains fentanyl and is extremely addictive. They are commonly known as ‘lollypops’ because they come on a stick which the user holds in his or her mouth until it dissolves. It is relatively rare on the streets, but substance abusers who get hold of it can cause a lot of damage to themselves due to the serious side effects.
Side Effects
Breathing problems are the main issues associated with Actiq. They can cause laboured breathing, slow breathing, and it can soon lead to faintness and dizziness. If a doctor doesn’t treat these symptoms quickly, they can kill the person.
If the person experiences a drop in blood pressure due to a high dosage or taking an overdose, it can cause them to collapse and be unable to get up again. It doesn’t normally lead to death, but if combined with breathing problems it could prevent the individual from seeking the relevant help.
More importantly, it causes physical dependency. The withdrawal symptoms are severe and can lead to the addiction becoming worse. This is not necessarily an addiction to the drug itself; it is an addiction to the feelings caused by the drug.
Treatment for an Addiction
If someone becomes addicted to Actiq, it is essential that they seek treatment from a drug addiction clinic immediately. In these facilities, they can go cold turkey and gently push themselves away from their physical dependencies. Luckily, relapsing into actively seeking out this drug again is not the problem. However, since the issue stems from a physical dependency, a carefully controlled environment can keep them away from any substance that may replicate the sensation of Actiq, to some extent.
The serious side effects of breathing problems can kill. However, in a controlled facility experienced members of staff have the right treatments for countering these side effects.
